Are you thinking about listing your Metro Detroit house? If so, you will likely be making some fixes and upgrades to the home in order to get it listing-ready. But not all repairs are created equal. You don;t want to make expensive repairs that offer little to no return.
In this blog, we have put together our list of 5 things to fix before you list your Metro Detroit
Getting your house ready to sell in Metro Detroit? Before you spend a dime on staging or professional photos, there are a few key repairs and updates that can make or break your sale. Many buyers form their opinion of your home in the first few minutes — so even minor flaws can cost you time and money.
Here are 6 essential fixes (plus a bonus tip!) that can increase your home’s appeal, boost your value, and help you sell faster.
1. 👣 Look Down… Flooring Matters More Than You Think
Worn flooring is one of the first things buyers notice, and it can leave a bad impression even in an otherwise clean and well-kept house.
Fixes to Consider:
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Cracked tile in the kitchen or bathroom? Replace just the damaged ones — no need to re-tile the whole floor.
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Hardwood scratches? Sanding and restaining high-traffic areas can breathe new life into the floor.
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Old carpet? If replacement isn’t in the budget, at least have it professionally cleaned. Stains and odors can be deal breakers.
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Peeling linoleum? Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles are a quick, affordable fix.
Example:
A seller in Metro Detroit had stained beige carpet in the living room. After replacing it with a low-cost, wood-look vinyl, they received multiple offers within the first week — and at $10K over asking.
2. 🏠 Look Up… Ceiling & Roof Warnings Scare Buyers
Most buyers (or their inspectors) will notice roof issues or ceiling stains immediately, and it raises serious concerns about leaks, mold, and expensive repairs.
Fixes to Consider:
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Patch or replace leaking shingles or flashing.
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Seal and repaint any water-stained ceilings (after the source of the leak is fixed).
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Address any sagging drywall or ceiling tiles.
Example:
A homeowner had a small brown water stain in the corner of their ceiling — they didn’t think it mattered. After two buyers backed out during inspection, they patched the roof and repainted the ceiling. The next buyer didn’t even blink.
3. 🎨 Look Around… Paint & Walls Set the Mood
Fresh paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to increase your home’s appeal. But it’s not just about neutralizing — it’s about creating a feeling.
Fixes to Consider:
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Repaint bold-colored rooms in soft, neutral tones (like greige, warm white, or pale taupe).
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Patch and sand any holes or nail pops.
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Remove or replace outdated or loud wallpaper.
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Add warmth with accent walls in soft earth tones or light blues/greens.
Example:
One couple had a red dining room and a deep navy office. Their realtor recommended painting both rooms a warm gray. After the update, the house photographed beautifully and sold quickly — with buyers saying the home “felt relaxing and ready to move into.”
4. 🌿 Landscaping: First Impressions Matter
Your front yard is like the cover of a book — and buyers do judge by it.
Fixes to Consider:
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Trim back overgrown bushes and trees.
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Pull weeds and add fresh mulch.
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Plant some seasonal flowers or low-maintenance greenery.
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Clean up the walkway, porch, or driveway.
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Add a new welcome mat and exterior lighting for a cozy first impression.
Example:
A seller in Metro Detroit spent just $250 on mulch, flowers, and paint for the front door. Their online listing stood out immediately, and one buyer said the home “felt cared for before even walking in.”
5. 🍽 Kitchen & 🛁 Bath Touch-Ups
You’ve heard it before: “Kitchens and bathrooms sell houses.” But that doesn’t mean you need to gut-renovate. Small updates here go a long way.
Fixes to Consider:
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Paint or reface cabinets — white or greige can modernize almost any kitchen.
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Replace dated hardware (drawer pulls, knobs, hinges).
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Update faucets and light fixtures.
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Re-caulk the tub and sink areas to look fresh and clean.
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Consider refinishing old countertops or reglazing an outdated tub.
Example:
One seller spent just $1,200 painting their kitchen cabinets, replacing hardware, and adding a new light fixture. The space went from “meh” to “wow” — and buyers were drawn in by the modern, fresh feel.
💡 Bonus Tip: Lighting Can Make or Break a Room
Dark, poorly lit spaces feel smaller and less inviting. Good lighting shows off your home’s best features.
Fixes to Consider:
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Replace dim or burnt-out bulbs with warm, LED lights.
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Add floor or table lamps in dark corners.
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Swap outdated fixtures for something clean and modern.
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Open blinds and curtains before every showing to let in natural light.
Example:
A seller in Metro Detroit switched out their builder-grade kitchen light for a pendant trio and added floor lamps in the living room. Their home felt brighter and more modern — and feedback from showings instantly improved.
✨ Final Thoughts
Before you list your Metro Detroit home, take a few days to make these smart, strategic fixes. You don’t need to spend thousands — but making your home feel clean, cared for, and move-in ready can make all the difference.
Want help figuring out where to start?
📞 Contact us at 3D Property Solutions — we’re happy to walk your property and share tips tailored to your situation, whether you plan to list, sell directly, or explore your options.